AN exclusive charity event will transport guests back to the 1980s, with a performance by new wave music sensations ABC.

The band, led by Martin Fry, will headline at the annual Lobster Ball at Hardwick Hall Hotel, near Sedgefield, County Durham, on Friday, May 2.

Best known for singles such as The Look of Love, Poison Arrow and All of My Heart, as well as the UK number one album The Lexicon of Love, ABC were a big hit in the UK and the US.

John Adamson, managing director of Ramside Estates, which owns the hotel, said: “The Lobster Charity Ball is a first-class event which attracts the best names from the world of entertainment.

“Having ABC perform at this year’s event is a real coup for us and they’re sure to put on a memorable performance.”

Adding to the entertainment line-up are The Sally Army, fronted by lead vocalist and X-Factor Bootcamp finalist Sally Dawson, North-East entertainer Jerome Remblance and Newcastle-born comic Brendan Healy.

Guests can also look forward to a fashion show, a Champagne and lobster canapé reception and a four-course lobster surf and turf menu prepared by award-winning chefs from the Rib Room Steakhouse and Grill.

Once again, all funds raised on the evening will be donated to the Norton-based autism charity Daisy Chain.

Last year, the event raised £18,000, which helped the charity provide more than 14,000 hours of care to hundreds of families affected by autism in Tees Valley.

Gold tickets are priced at £140 plus VAT.

For more information or to book, contact 01740 620253 or email info@hardwickhallhotel.co.uk